I came with different expectations today. I thought I would learn how to teach poetry or gain insight into the literary process behind it. I've written poetry before n even joined competitions in university, so I was excited to reconnect with that experience. I don't get it from here. If not knowledge, I hoped to atleast meet people or exchange ideas. But there was no discussion, interaction, or space to engage. It felt more like being a free audience expected to applaud on cue. People's time matters. Especially in this economy, attending an event is investment of money, energy, and attention. Participants deserve to leave with something: insight, connection, or meaningful experience. I also noticed organizers seemly take up performance space themselves, reading poetry. Duh. For future events, I hope there is clearer purpose, more interaction, and greater respect for attendees. I'm disappointed because I came with genuine enthusiasm. I think that disappointment deserves attention.